10764485

Display Control Apparatus and Control Method Therefor

PublishedSeptember 1, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
23 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A display control apparatus comprising: at least memory and at least one processor that cause the display control apparatus to: detect a touch performed on a display unit; specify a specifying object in a predetermined region of the display unit according to a touched position; control, in response to a touch being performed in the predetermined region, to display an object identification mark in the predetermined region to indicate a first axis and a second axis, wherein an intersection point of the first axis and the second axis corresponds with the specified specifying object based on the touched position of the touch, and to hide the object identification mark when the touch is released; switch between a first mode in which the display control apparatus specifies a target from targets of a first type in the predetermined region and a second mode in which the display control apparatus specifies a target from targets of a second type different from the targets of the first type in the predetermined region; control the object identification mark not to be displayed in a case where a touch is released from a position where the touch is started before a predetermined time has passed after the touch onto the predetermined region is started; and control the object identification mark to be displayed according to a touch performed in the predetermined region in the first mode, and control the object identification mark not to be displayed even if a touch is performed in the predetermined region in the second mode.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a display control apparatus for touch-based user interfaces, addressing the challenge of efficiently selecting and identifying objects in a display region. The apparatus includes memory and at least one processor that detect a touch on a display unit and specify an object in a predetermined region based on the touch position. When a touch occurs in this region, an object identification mark is displayed, showing a first and second axis intersecting at the specified object. The mark is hidden when the touch is released. The apparatus operates in two modes: a first mode where it selects targets of a first type (e.g., icons, buttons) and a second mode where it selects targets of a second type (e.g., text, data points). The identification mark is only displayed in the first mode; in the second mode, touches in the region do not trigger the mark. Additionally, if a touch is released before a predetermined time elapses, the mark is not displayed, preventing accidental activations. This system enhances user interaction by providing clear visual feedback for object selection while minimizing unintended displays.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein, when the touch is released after the object identification mark is displayed, the display control apparatus controls a mark that indicates a target specified according to a touched position to be displayed.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed to enhance user interaction with touch-sensitive displays by providing visual feedback during object selection. The apparatus addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and selecting objects on a touchscreen, particularly in environments where precise touch input is difficult or when multiple objects are displayed closely together. The system improves user experience by dynamically displaying an object identification mark when a touch is detected, allowing the user to visually confirm the selected target before finalizing the selection. When the touch is released, the apparatus then displays a mark indicating the final target based on the touched position, ensuring clarity and reducing selection errors. This functionality is particularly useful in applications requiring precise input, such as graphic design, gaming, or navigation systems, where accurate object selection is critical. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as adjusting the display of the identification mark based on touch duration or movement, further refining the selection process. By providing real-time visual feedback, the system helps users interact more effectively with touchscreen interfaces, minimizing misselections and improving overall usability.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the object identification mark is a display which indicates at least a target adjacent to a specified target according to the touched position.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed to enhance user interaction with touch-sensitive displays by providing visual feedback that indicates relationships between objects. The apparatus identifies a specified target object based on a touch input and displays an object identification mark to highlight the target. The mark also indicates at least one adjacent target, showing spatial or functional relationships between objects. This helps users quickly understand the context of their interaction, improving navigation and selection accuracy. The system dynamically adjusts the display to emphasize relevant objects, reducing ambiguity in multi-object environments. The apparatus may include a touch detection unit to determine touch positions and a display unit to render the identification marks. The marks can be visual indicators such as highlights, arrows, or labels that dynamically update as the user interacts with the display. This solution addresses challenges in touch-based interfaces where users may struggle to distinguish between closely spaced or similar-looking objects, particularly in applications like maps, diagrams, or multi-layered interfaces. The apparatus ensures intuitive and efficient object selection by providing clear visual guidance.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the object identification mark is a display of a line indicating the first axis and a line indicating the second axis, which pass through a target specified according to the touched position.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems for touch-sensitive displays, particularly for improving user interaction with graphical data. The problem addressed is the difficulty in precisely specifying a target position on a display when using touch input, especially in applications involving complex data visualization. The invention provides a display control apparatus that enhances touch-based targeting by dynamically generating visual feedback to assist users in accurately selecting points on a display. The apparatus includes a touch-sensitive display that detects a touched position and generates an object identification mark to indicate a target position. The mark consists of two intersecting lines representing a first axis and a second axis, both passing through the target. These lines help users visually confirm the exact position being selected, reducing errors in touch input. The system adjusts the target position based on the touched position, ensuring alignment with the user's intent. The apparatus may also include a processor to calculate the target position and a display driver to render the identification mark. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring precise touch input, such as data analysis, mapping, or graphical user interfaces. By providing clear visual feedback, it improves accuracy and user experience in touch-based interactions. The apparatus may be integrated into various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and interactive displays. The dynamic generation of the identification mark ensures adaptability to different display sizes and resolutions, maintaining usability across devices.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein, from among the predetermined region, the object identification mark is displayed in a region which does not include a target specified according to the touched position.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed to enhance user interaction with touch-sensitive displays by dynamically adjusting the placement of object identification marks. The apparatus operates in a system where a touch input is detected on a display screen, and a target object is specified based on the touched position. The apparatus identifies a predetermined region on the display where an object identification mark is to be displayed. To avoid obscuring the target object, the apparatus ensures the identification mark is placed within this predetermined region but excludes the specific area occupied by the target object. This prevents the mark from overlapping or interfering with the target, improving visibility and usability. The apparatus may also adjust the size, shape, or position of the identification mark dynamically based on the target's location and the available display space. This solution addresses the problem of cluttered or obscured interfaces in touch-based systems, particularly in applications where multiple objects or interactive elements are displayed simultaneously. The apparatus is useful in devices such as smartphones, tablets, and interactive kiosks where touch input and visual feedback are critical for user experience.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the object identification mark includes a line that connects one end to another end in the predetermined region in a direction of the first axis of the predetermined region and a line that connects one end to another end in a direction of the second axis of the predetermined region.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems for identifying objects within a predefined region. The problem addressed is the need for a clear and efficient way to visually mark and distinguish objects in a display, particularly in applications where precise spatial identification is required, such as augmented reality, medical imaging, or industrial inspection. The invention involves a display control apparatus that generates an object identification mark within a predetermined region of a display. The mark consists of two intersecting lines: one line extends along a first axis of the region, connecting opposite ends, and another line extends along a second axis of the region, also connecting opposite ends. These lines form a cross-like structure that visually demarcates the boundaries of the object or area of interest. The apparatus may adjust the position, orientation, or visibility of these lines based on user input or system conditions, ensuring adaptability to different display environments. The intersecting lines provide a straightforward and intuitive way to highlight objects, improving user interaction and reducing ambiguity in object identification. This approach enhances clarity and precision in visual displays where spatial referencing is critical.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first axis and the second axis are orthogonal to each other.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control apparatuses, specifically those designed to enhance user interaction with graphical interfaces by optimizing the arrangement of display elements. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in conventional systems where display elements are arranged in a single-dimensional or non-orthogonal manner, leading to cluttered interfaces and reduced usability. The apparatus includes a display control unit that manages the positioning of display elements along two axes. The first axis and the second axis are orthogonal to each other, ensuring that display elements are arranged in a grid-like structure. This orthogonal arrangement improves spatial efficiency and allows for intuitive navigation. The display control unit dynamically adjusts the positions of display elements based on user input or system conditions, ensuring optimal visibility and accessibility. The apparatus may also include a user input detection unit that captures gestures, touch inputs, or other interactions to determine the desired positioning of display elements. A display unit renders the elements according to the calculated positions, providing a clear and organized interface. The orthogonal arrangement minimizes overlap and maximizes the usable display area, enhancing the overall user experience. This invention is particularly useful in applications requiring precise control over display elements, such as graphical user interfaces, augmented reality systems, or multi-window environments. By ensuring that the axes are orthogonal, the apparatus eliminates misalignment issues and improves the efficiency of display management.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a size of the target of the first type in the predetermined region is smaller than a size of the target of the second type in the predetermined region.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems for managing visual representations of targets in a predetermined region, addressing the challenge of effectively distinguishing between different types of targets in a display. The system categorizes targets into at least two types—first type and second type—and adjusts their visual representation sizes within the display region to enhance clarity and usability. Specifically, the size of the first-type target is smaller than the size of the second-type target in the predetermined region, ensuring that the second-type target is more prominent and easily identifiable. This size differentiation helps users quickly recognize and prioritize the second-type targets over the first-type targets, improving decision-making and interaction efficiency. The system dynamically controls the display to maintain this size relationship, ensuring consistent visual hierarchy. This approach is particularly useful in applications where multiple targets must be displayed simultaneously, such as in navigation systems, surveillance interfaces, or data visualization tools, where distinguishing between different target types is critical for effective operation. The invention optimizes the display layout by allocating appropriate visual space to each target type, reducing clutter and enhancing user experience.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a number of targets of the first type in the predetermined region is greater than a number of targets of the second type in the predetermined region.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems for distinguishing between different types of targets within a predetermined region. The system addresses the challenge of effectively managing and displaying multiple targets of varying types, ensuring clear differentiation and prioritization. The apparatus includes a display unit that visually represents targets of a first type and a second type within a defined area. The key innovation is that the number of targets of the first type in the predetermined region exceeds the number of targets of the second type. This ensures that the display prioritizes the first type of targets, making them more prominent and easier to identify. The apparatus may also include a detection unit to identify and classify targets into the first and second types, and a control unit to adjust the display based on the detected targets. The display may use visual indicators such as color, size, or position to distinguish between the two types. This approach improves user awareness and decision-making by emphasizing the more numerous or critical targets. The system is particularly useful in applications like surveillance, navigation, or industrial monitoring where distinguishing between different target types is essential.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a plurality of targets that can be specified by the display control apparatus according to the touched position is arranged and displayed in the first axis direction and the second axis direction in the predetermined region.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed to enhance user interaction with touch-sensitive displays by dynamically arranging and displaying multiple selectable targets in a predefined region. The apparatus detects touch input at a specific position on the display and determines a corresponding target from a plurality of targets arranged along a first axis and a second axis within the predefined region. The targets are positioned such that they can be individually specified based on the touched position, allowing for precise and intuitive selection. This arrangement improves usability by providing a structured and organized display of options, reducing the likelihood of misselection and enhancing the efficiency of touch-based interactions. The apparatus may adjust the arrangement of targets dynamically in response to user input or system conditions, ensuring optimal accessibility and functionality. The solution addresses challenges in touch-based interfaces where targets must be clearly distinguishable and easily selectable, particularly in environments with limited display space or complex user interfaces. By organizing targets along two axes, the apparatus enables a scalable and adaptable approach to target selection, accommodating varying numbers of options while maintaining usability.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a plurality of targets that can be specified by the display control apparatus is arranged and displayed in a plurality of rows and columns in the predetermined region, and wherein the object identification mark makes targets displayed in a same row and a same column of a target specified by the display control apparatus according to a touched position be displayed in a display appearance different from a display appearance of targets displayed in different rows and columns.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a display control apparatus for enhancing user interaction with a touchscreen interface. The problem addressed is the difficulty in visually distinguishing and selecting multiple targets (e.g., icons, buttons) arranged in a grid when touched by a user. The solution involves dynamically highlighting targets in the same row and column as the touched target, making them visually distinct from other targets in the grid. The apparatus displays multiple selectable targets in a grid layout within a predefined region of the screen. When a user touches a target, an object identification mark is generated to highlight all targets in the same row and column as the touched target. These highlighted targets are displayed with a different visual appearance (e.g., color, brightness, or border) compared to targets in other rows and columns. This visual feedback helps users quickly identify related targets and improves selection accuracy in grid-based interfaces. The apparatus may also include features such as touch detection, target arrangement logic, and visual rendering to ensure smooth and intuitive interaction. The dynamic highlighting mechanism reduces user confusion and enhances the efficiency of target selection in applications like menus, spreadsheets, or gaming interfaces. The invention is particularly useful in touchscreen devices where precise targeting is challenging due to finger size or screen resolution limitations.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a specification pattern can be switched between a position specification pattern for specifying a target according to a touched position in the predetermined region and a region specification pattern for specifying a region including a target according to a touched position and any of targets adjacent to the target in the predetermined region, and wherein, according to a touch performed in the predetermined region, the display control apparatus controls the object identification mark to be displayed in a thickness of an axis according to the target in a case where the specification pattern is switched to the position specification pattern, and controls the object identification mark to be displayed in a thickness of an axis according to the region which is thicker than the thickness according to the target in a case where the specification pattern is switched to the region specification pattern.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed to enhance user interaction with touch-based interfaces by dynamically adjusting visual feedback based on the type of target selection. The apparatus operates in a system where a user interacts with a display screen containing a predetermined region with multiple selectable targets. The apparatus allows switching between two specification patterns: a position specification pattern and a region specification pattern. In the position specification pattern, the apparatus identifies a target based on the exact touched position within the predetermined region. In the region specification pattern, the apparatus identifies a region encompassing a target and adjacent targets based on the touched position and the proximity of neighboring targets. The apparatus provides visual feedback through an object identification mark, which varies in thickness according to the selected pattern. When the position specification pattern is active, the mark is displayed with a thickness corresponding to the selected target. When the region specification pattern is active, the mark is displayed with a thicker axis, indicating the broader region selection. This dynamic adjustment helps users distinguish between precise target selection and broader region-based selection, improving usability in touch interfaces. The apparatus ensures clear visual differentiation between the two modes, reducing ambiguity in user interactions.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the at least memory and at least one processor further cause the display control apparatus to accept a specification operation for specifying a target in the predetermined region onto an operating member, wherein, according to an acceptance of the specification operation onto the operating member, the display control apparatus controls a mark that indicates a target specified according to the specification operation to be displayed without displaying the object identification mark.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems, specifically for enhancing user interaction with displayed objects. The problem addressed is the clutter and confusion caused by multiple visual indicators (e.g., object identification marks) when selecting or interacting with targets in a display region. The solution involves a display control apparatus that improves user experience by dynamically managing visual feedback during target specification. The apparatus includes at least one processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the apparatus to control display output. When a user performs a specification operation (e.g., a touch or pointer input) to select a target within a predefined display region, the apparatus responds by displaying a mark indicating the selected target. Critically, the apparatus suppresses the display of object identification marks (e.g., labels or icons) for other objects in the region during this interaction. This reduces visual noise and focuses attention on the selected target, improving clarity and usability. The apparatus may also include an operating member (e.g., a touchscreen or input device) to accept the specification operation. The system dynamically adjusts the display to prioritize the target mark over identification marks, ensuring a cleaner interface during interaction. This approach is particularly useful in applications where multiple objects are displayed simultaneously, such as graphical user interfaces, augmented reality, or navigation systems. The invention enhances user efficiency by minimizing distractions while maintaining clear feedback for the selected target.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined region is a region for performing a predetermined setting, and wherein, according to a touch performed in the predetermined region, a setting value of the predetermined setting is set to a setting value corresponding to a touched position.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems for touch-sensitive interfaces, particularly for adjusting settings based on touch input. The problem addressed is the need for intuitive and precise control of settings in electronic devices, such as adjusting volume, brightness, or other parameters, without requiring complex menus or multiple inputs. The invention provides a display control apparatus that includes a touch-sensitive display and a processor. The display renders a graphical user interface (GUI) with a predetermined region designated for performing a specific setting adjustment. When a user touches this region, the processor detects the touch position and adjusts the setting value proportionally to the touched location. For example, touching the left side of the region may decrease the setting value, while touching the right side increases it. The setting value is updated in real-time as the touch moves, allowing for fine-grained control. The apparatus may also include a memory to store the current setting value and a communication interface to transmit the adjusted value to other components of the device. This approach eliminates the need for multiple taps or sliders, providing a more fluid and responsive user experience. The invention is applicable to various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart home systems, where quick and precise setting adjustments are desirable. The system ensures that users can intuitively modify settings without navigating through multiple menus, enhancing usability and efficiency.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined region is a region for specifying an autofocus frame, and a plurality of frames that can be specified as an autofocus position is displayed in the predetermined region.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control for autofocus (AF) systems in imaging devices, addressing the challenge of efficiently selecting AF positions. The apparatus displays a predetermined region on a screen, which serves as an interface for specifying an autofocus frame. Within this region, multiple frames are shown, each representing potential AF positions that a user or system can select. The apparatus dynamically adjusts the display of these frames based on factors such as the current AF mode, scene conditions, or user input. The frames may vary in size, shape, or position to optimize focus accuracy and user experience. The system may also highlight or prioritize certain frames based on detected subjects or focus algorithms. This improves usability by providing clear visual feedback and reducing the time required to set AF positions, particularly in complex scenes with multiple potential focus targets. The invention enhances traditional AF interfaces by offering a more intuitive and flexible way to manage focus selection.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The display control apparatus according to claim 15 , wherein, when the autofocus frame is to be specified, a selection method can be switched between a plurality of selection patterns including a zone selection and a one-point selection, and wherein, in a case where the selection pattern is switched to the zone selection, the display control apparatus controls the object identification mark not to be displayed even if a touch is performed in the predetermined region.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems for electronic devices, particularly those with touchscreen interfaces used for autofocus (AF) control in imaging applications. The problem addressed is improving user experience by providing flexible autofocus frame selection methods while preventing unintended object identification mark displays during zone selection. The system allows switching between multiple autofocus selection patterns, including zone selection (covering an area) and one-point selection (single point focus). When operating in zone selection mode, the apparatus suppresses display of object identification marks even when touch input occurs within a predetermined region. This prevents visual clutter when users intend to select an area rather than identify specific objects. The one-point selection mode maintains standard behavior where object identification marks appear upon touch input. The apparatus includes a touch detection unit to determine touch locations, a selection pattern switching unit to change between selection modes, and a display control unit that manages the visibility of object identification marks based on the current selection pattern. This solution enhances usability by providing appropriate visual feedback only when relevant to the current selection mode.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined region is a region for displaying a live view image, and the display control apparatus specifies a position for executing autofocus processing based on a touched position in the live view image.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed for digital imaging systems, particularly for devices that capture and display live view images, such as cameras or smartphones. The apparatus addresses the challenge of accurately focusing on a subject in a live view image, especially when the subject is not centered or when manual focus adjustment is cumbersome. The apparatus includes a display that shows a live view image captured by an imaging device and a touch-sensitive interface that detects user input. When a user touches a specific position on the live view image, the apparatus interprets this input to determine the desired focus point. The apparatus then directs the imaging device to perform autofocus processing at or near the touched position, ensuring the subject at that location is brought into sharp focus. This touch-based autofocus system enhances user convenience by allowing intuitive and precise focus control without requiring complex manual adjustments. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as adjusting display settings or processing image data, to optimize the live view experience. The invention improves the efficiency and accuracy of focus control in digital imaging, particularly in scenarios where quick and responsive autofocus is essential.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined region is a region for displaying a setting screen for setting a white balance, and a value of the white balance is set according to the touched position in the setting screen of the white balance.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a display control apparatus for adjusting white balance settings in an imaging device. The apparatus includes a display unit that shows a setting screen for white balance adjustment, where the screen includes a predetermined region that responds to touch input. When a user touches a position within this region, the apparatus determines a corresponding white balance value based on the touch position and applies this value to the imaging device. The predetermined region may be a color wheel or a gradient scale, where different touch positions correlate to different white balance settings, such as color temperature adjustments. The apparatus ensures intuitive and precise white balance control by mapping touch coordinates directly to specific white balance parameters, eliminating the need for manual numerical input or complex menu navigation. This improves user experience by providing a visual and interactive way to fine-tune image color accuracy. The invention is particularly useful in digital cameras, smartphones, and other imaging systems where quick and accurate white balance adjustments are desired.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The display control apparatus according to claim 18 , wherein, in the setting screen of the white balance, the first axis direction indicates a color temperature and the second axis direction indicates a color correction different from the color temperature, and wherein the display control apparatus controls a line indicating the first axis direction and a line indicating the second axis direction to be displayed in respective colors corresponding to set values according to the touched position as the object identification mark.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to display control systems for adjusting white balance in imaging devices. The problem addressed is the complexity of traditional white balance adjustment interfaces, which often require users to manually select from predefined color temperature settings or use complex color correction tools. The invention provides an intuitive graphical interface for adjusting white balance by combining color temperature and color correction adjustments in a single, interactive display. The system includes a touch-sensitive display that presents a setting screen for white balance adjustments. The screen features two axes: the first axis represents color temperature, while the second axis represents a distinct color correction parameter. Users interact with the screen by touching a position that corresponds to their desired white balance settings. The system then displays an object identification mark—a line or indicator—that visually represents the selected settings. The lines indicating the first and second axes are displayed in colors corresponding to the set values based on the touched position, providing immediate visual feedback. This approach simplifies white balance adjustments by integrating multiple parameters into a single, visually intuitive interface. The color-coded lines help users quickly understand and fine-tune their selections, improving usability for both amateur and professional users. The invention is particularly useful in digital cameras, smartphones, and other imaging devices where precise color control is important.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the display control apparatus controls the object identification mark to be displayed according to passage of the predetermined time after the touch onto the predetermined region is started.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed to enhance user interaction with touch-sensitive displays by dynamically controlling the display of object identification marks. The apparatus addresses the problem of users struggling to identify or select specific objects on a touchscreen, particularly in cluttered or complex interfaces. The apparatus includes a touch detection unit that detects when a user touches a predetermined region of the display, such as a button or interactive element. Upon detecting the touch, the apparatus initiates a delay period, and after a predetermined time has passed, it controls the display to show an object identification mark. This mark helps the user confirm their selection or identify the object they are interacting with. The apparatus may also include a display unit that renders the identification mark and a control unit that manages the timing and appearance of the mark. The delay ensures that the mark does not appear prematurely, preventing accidental or unintended selections. This feature improves usability by providing clear feedback to the user while maintaining a clean interface until the user explicitly interacts with the display. The apparatus is particularly useful in applications where precise touch input is required, such as graphic design tools, gaming interfaces, or mobile device navigation.

Claim 21

Original Legal Text

21. The display control apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the display control apparatus controls the object identification mark to be displayed according to movement of a touched position even if the predetermined time has not passed after the touch with onto the predetermined region is started.

Plain English Translation

A display control apparatus is designed to enhance user interaction with touch-sensitive displays by dynamically adjusting the display of object identification marks. The apparatus addresses the problem of delayed or static feedback during touch interactions, which can reduce user experience and efficiency. The apparatus includes a touch detection unit that identifies touch inputs on a predetermined region of the display and a display control unit that manages the visibility of object identification marks. When a user touches the display, the apparatus initially displays an object identification mark at the touched position. If the user moves their finger while touching, the apparatus updates the position of the object identification mark in real-time, even before a predetermined time threshold has elapsed. This ensures continuous visual feedback during touch movements, improving responsiveness and usability. The apparatus also includes a timer to track the duration of the touch, allowing for additional functionality if the touch is sustained beyond the predetermined time. The dynamic adjustment of the object identification mark based on touch movement provides immediate feedback, making the interaction more intuitive and efficient.

Claim 22

Original Legal Text

22. A control method for a display control apparatus including a display unit, the method comprising: detecting a touch performed on the display unit; specifying a specifying object in a predetermined region of the display unit according to a touched position; controlling, in response to a touch being performed in the predetermined region, to display an object identification mark in the predetermined region to indicate a first axis and a second axis, wherein an intersection point of the first axis and the second axis corresponds with the specified specifying object based on the touched position of the touch, and to hide the object identification mark when the touch is released; and switching between a first mode in which the display control apparatus specifies a target from targets of a first type in the predetermined region and a second mode in which the display control apparatus specifies a target from targets of a second type different from the targets of the first type in the predetermined region; controlling the object identification mark not to be displayed in a case where a touch is released from a position where the touch is started before a predetermined time has passed after the touch onto the predetermined region is started; and controlling the object identification mark to be displayed according to a touch performed in the predetermined region in the first mode, and controlling the object identification mark not to be displayed even if a touch is performed in the predetermined region in the second mode.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a control method for a display control apparatus with a touch-sensitive display unit. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently selecting and identifying objects on a display, particularly in environments where multiple types of objects (e.g., icons, text, or interactive elements) coexist. The method detects a touch on the display and specifies an object in a predetermined region based on the touch position. In response to the touch, an object identification mark is displayed, showing a first and second axis intersecting at the specified object. The mark is hidden when the touch is released. The method also switches between a first mode, where targets of a first type (e.g., icons) are selectable, and a second mode, where targets of a second type (e.g., text) are selectable. The identification mark is only displayed in the first mode; in the second mode, even if a touch is performed, the mark remains hidden. Additionally, if a touch is released before a predetermined time elapses, the mark is not displayed, preventing unintended selections. This approach improves user interaction by providing clear visual feedback for object selection while avoiding clutter in modes where the mark is unnecessary.

Claim 23

Original Legal Text

23. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing a control method for a display control apparatus including a display unit, the method comprising: detecting a touch performed on the display unit; specifying a specifying object in a predetermined region of the display unit according to a touched position; controlling, in response to a touch being performed in the predetermined region, to display an object identification mark in the predetermined region to indicate a first axis and a second axis, wherein an intersection point of the first axis and the second axis corresponds with the specified specifying object based on the touched position of the touch, and to hide the object identification mark when the touch is released; switching between a first mode in which the display control apparatus specifies a target from targets of a first type in the predetermined region and a second mode in which the display control apparatus specifies a target from targets of a second type different from the targets of the first type in the predetermined region; controlling the object identification mark not to be displayed in a case where a touch is released from a position where the touch is started before a predetermined time has passed after the touch onto the predetermined region is started; and controlling the object identification mark to be displayed according to a touch performed in the predetermined region in the first mode, and controlling the object identification mark not to be displayed even if a touch is performed in the predetermined region in the second mode.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to a display control system for touch-based user interfaces, addressing the challenge of efficiently selecting and identifying objects in a display region. The system includes a display unit and a control method that detects touch interactions on the display. When a touch is performed in a predetermined region, the system specifies an object in that region based on the touch position and displays an object identification mark. This mark includes two axes intersecting at the specified object, visually indicating its location. The mark is hidden when the touch is released. The system operates in two modes: a first mode where it selects targets of a first type (e.g., icons or interactive elements) and a second mode where it selects targets of a second type (e.g., non-interactive elements or different categories). In the first mode, the identification mark is displayed upon touch, while in the second mode, it is suppressed. Additionally, if a touch is released before a predetermined time elapses, the mark is not displayed, preventing unintended selections. This approach enhances user interaction by providing clear visual feedback for object selection while allowing mode-based customization of display behavior.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

September 1, 2020

Inventors

Yuko Izaki
Daiyu Ueno

Want to explore more patents?

Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.

Citation & reuse

Analysis on this page is generated by Patentable — an AI-powered patent intelligence platform. AI-generated summaries, explanations, FAQs, and analysis may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL below. Patent abstracts and claims are USPTO public domain.

Cite as: Patentable. “DISPLAY CONTROL APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREFOR” (10764485). https://patentable.app/patents/10764485

© 2026 Nomic Interactive Technology LLC. Machine-readable context available at /api/llm-context/10764485. See llms.txt for full attribution policy.